And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
The whole world lies in wickedness, so we must put off the old man entirely if we would truly put on Christ. Paul pulls reason down from her throne; the mind must be renewed, not merely the flesh or lower soul, as the Sorbonists dream, but the leading power itself, for we are altogether alienated from God's righteousness until we are born again.
AI summary
We must first give ourselves to the Lord, this is the spring of all obedience. Present your bodies, your whole selves, as living sacrifices; it is by laying your hand on the offering and transferring all your right and interest to God that the sacrifice takes hold. Though he could command with authority, the apostle beseeches us instead, for men are more easily led than driven.
AI summary
Commenting on Romans 12:1-21
Do not conform to the men of the world in a moral sense, walking in the same excess of riot as them, nor in a religious sense, joining in idolatry and will-worship. Conformity to evil manners is contrary to the very principle and doctrine of grace, which teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts entirely.
AI summary